Determining the Extractivism of Pequi Fruits (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.): Optimization of Production and Distribution Logistics

Abstract

The extractive activity of pequi is of great relevance to the northern mesoregion of the state of Minas Gerais. Thus, this study aimed to identify strategic locations for storage, processing and distribution units for pequi extraction in the region, in order to help strengthen the pequi chain. In order to do so, a mathematical model of  Location-Allocation of type uncapacitated p-median used through Geographic Information Systems, which allowed the execution of a localization-allocation heuristic method. In order to do so, we inserted into the ArcGIS 10.1 software the location of 118 extractive communities of pequi in 22 municipalities in the north of the state of Minas Gerais, 26,407.32km of vectorial features of the road system of the contemplated regions and 3,711 potential points for the installation of the extractive units. The simulations carried out for the implantation of five extractivist units sought to minimize the time spent displacing between the demand points (communities) and the facilities (extractive units) and contemplated the Municipalities of  Lontra, Mirabela, Januária, Japonvar, Chapada Gaúcha and Brasília de Minas. It was verified that with the increase in the number of storage, processing and distribution units for pequi extractivism, the total time of displacement in relation to the extractivist communities is reduced, which consequently reduces transportation costs, the implementation of five extractive units the most advantageous simulation.